Information on How to Go Green

Going green means being more conscious of your impact on the environment.

There's no one right way to go green. Environmental responsibility comes from a series of small changes that you can make in your life. With new improvements in technology and new research on environmental issues, those changes are getting easier to make without sacrificing your lifestyle.

Reduce Your Energy Usage

Most energy in the United States is produced by burning fossil fuels. Reducing your energy use at home can cut back on the amount of greenhouse gas produced by your daily activities. One simple way to reduce energy is to change your lightbulbs to energy-efficient compact fluorescents. (See References 1) You can also save energy by sealing and insulating your home, switching to energy-efficient appliances and turning off lights, appliances and electronics when they're not in use (see References 2).

Drive Smarter

Idling your car means you're getting zero miles per gallon, while pumping greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Consider carpooling or taking public transit, and make sure not to warm up your vehicle for longer than 30 seconds. Avoid high speeds, rapid acceleration and hard braking; these can lower your gas mileage by up to 33 percent. Clear out extra weight in your car, inflate your tires properly and keep your car well maintained so it runs efficiently, burning less gas and oil. If you can afford it, consider buying a fuel-efficient vehicle. (See References 3)

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Keep waste out of landfills by reducing the amount of disposable or single-use products you buy, and by reusing or recycling whatever materials you can. If your community has a curbside recycling program, sign up for bins so your paper, plastic and glass bottles, metal cans and other recyclables can be picked up and processed. (See References 1)

Cut Out Chemicals

Chemical cleaning products, herbicides and pesticides can be hazardous to your health as well as to the environment. Replace your cleaning products with eco-friendly, nontoxic cleaners. You can even make your own cleaners using common household items such as baking soda and vinegar (see References 5). In your garden, choose organic pesticides and grow native plants that will resist weeds and disease on their own.

Invest in Renewables

Renewable energy comes from natural sources --- sun, wind, water, wood and geothermics --- that either can't be used up or can be replenished naturally. Using renewable energy cuts down on fossil fuels, preventing greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere. It also promotes sustainable energy use, helping ward off potential energy crises. If you can afford the investment, consider installing solar panels on your home. Otherwise, contact your energy company and ask about purchasing "green" energy from renewable sources. (See References 6)

About the Author

An award-winning blogger, Jessica Blue has been promoting sustainability, natural health and a do-it-yourself attitude since graduating University of California, Berkeley in 2000. Her work, seen in a wide variety of publications, advocates an environmentally-responsible and healthy lifestyle.